Culture and Arts Holidays
| Buenos Aires | China |
| Ghent Weekend | Latvia - The Land That Sings |
| Portugal | Rome |
|
Three into one will go
LUCCA, SIENA, FLORENCE - 3 LOCATIONS, 1 WEEK
|
Verona and the Opera |
Buenos Aires
Mention Argentina and everyone thinks of beef, the World Cup or Evita so when I was given the opportunity to travel to South America I decided to check out Buenos Aires for myself to see what this vibrant city had to offer.
14 hours from the UK Buenos Aires lies on South East edge of the River Plate. Upon arrival I was whisked off to the Four Seasons Hotel - a deluxe hotel and spa near the business district of Buenos Aires. This was to be a whirlwind tour as two days later I was off again to Iguazu.
The Four Seasons Hotel, formerly the Hyatt, is a stunning modern style hotel. The sumptuous rooms have large bathrooms with walk in wet showers and all the facilities you would expect from this hotel group. In the mornings at breakfast guests are welcomed by a harpist and in the evenings by a pianist.
I decided to take a half day city tour to give me an idea of the layout of the city and our first stop was Main Square.
Main Square has been the site for many of the public meetings and demonstrations that have plagued Buenos Aires in its turbulent history. Here you will find the old town hall, the Casa Rosada or Pink House where Eva Peron made her famous speech to the 'descamisados', and the Cathedral.
The centre of the square is dominated by a needle, where the Mothers of the Lost Children come wearing white handkerchiefs to mourn the loss of so many that disappeared.
Next stop was Boca, this small area of Buenos Aires is the artisan centre and on a Sunday hosts a flea market where you can buy paintings by local artists, antiques or just sit at a bar and watch tango dancers. Of course Argentina is the home of the Tango, but more of that later.
Next we travelled along the river front once run down but now being regenerated into a chic hotel and restaurant area. Here you will find the Hilton hotel and many top class restaurants and boutiques.
A short journey away is the city cemetery, a very small and private cemetery for the rich and famous of Buenos Aires and now home to many city cats. They are fed by the owners of the mausoleums, most of which are very gothic affairs, but a visit here will take you to the mausoleum of the Family Duarte and the final resting place of Evita, Eva Peron. After her death and the downfall of Peron her body disappeared for fifteen years. It was discovered in Milan under an assumed name and only when Peron had died and Evita's fortune passed to her family were they able to return her to her beloved Buenos Aires.
From here I was taken to the shopping area of Buenos Aires and spent the rest of the afternoon browsing the many shops and shopping malls. There are many bargains to be had and the exchange rate for us is very favourable.
As I mentioned Buenos Aires is the home of the Tango and a visit would not be complete without sampling a Tango Show. There are many in the city but my guide insisted on one in particular which produced the Tango as it was original performed and not the way it has been adapted to today's dancing styles. 'El Querandi' is a small restaurant and tango show housed in an old former cafe. A three course meal with free wine and the show costs approximately £30 per person and is exceptionally good value. The food was excellent and the show fantastic, moving from the early period of the tango in the 1800's to a more modern day. This was a show not to be missed.
Buenos Aires is a fascinating city, I would have loved to spend more time there. The people are friendly and helpful and there are numerous museums, the Opera and theatres where one could spend one's time.
My next stop on this whirlwind tour was to be Iguazu Falls
Check out my report under Scenic Holidays.
Stephen Cresswell - Medway Travel
14 hours from the UK Buenos Aires lies on South East edge of the River Plate. Upon arrival I was whisked off to the Four Seasons Hotel - a deluxe hotel and spa near the business district of Buenos Aires. This was to be a whirlwind tour as two days later I was off again to Iguazu.
The Four Seasons Hotel, formerly the Hyatt, is a stunning modern style hotel. The sumptuous rooms have large bathrooms with walk in wet showers and all the facilities you would expect from this hotel group. In the mornings at breakfast guests are welcomed by a harpist and in the evenings by a pianist.
I decided to take a half day city tour to give me an idea of the layout of the city and our first stop was Main Square.
Main Square has been the site for many of the public meetings and demonstrations that have plagued Buenos Aires in its turbulent history. Here you will find the old town hall, the Casa Rosada or Pink House where Eva Peron made her famous speech to the 'descamisados', and the Cathedral.
The centre of the square is dominated by a needle, where the Mothers of the Lost Children come wearing white handkerchiefs to mourn the loss of so many that disappeared.
Next stop was Boca, this small area of Buenos Aires is the artisan centre and on a Sunday hosts a flea market where you can buy paintings by local artists, antiques or just sit at a bar and watch tango dancers. Of course Argentina is the home of the Tango, but more of that later.
Next we travelled along the river front once run down but now being regenerated into a chic hotel and restaurant area. Here you will find the Hilton hotel and many top class restaurants and boutiques.
A short journey away is the city cemetery, a very small and private cemetery for the rich and famous of Buenos Aires and now home to many city cats. They are fed by the owners of the mausoleums, most of which are very gothic affairs, but a visit here will take you to the mausoleum of the Family Duarte and the final resting place of Evita, Eva Peron. After her death and the downfall of Peron her body disappeared for fifteen years. It was discovered in Milan under an assumed name and only when Peron had died and Evita's fortune passed to her family were they able to return her to her beloved Buenos Aires.
From here I was taken to the shopping area of Buenos Aires and spent the rest of the afternoon browsing the many shops and shopping malls. There are many bargains to be had and the exchange rate for us is very favourable.
As I mentioned Buenos Aires is the home of the Tango and a visit would not be complete without sampling a Tango Show. There are many in the city but my guide insisted on one in particular which produced the Tango as it was original performed and not the way it has been adapted to today's dancing styles. 'El Querandi' is a small restaurant and tango show housed in an old former cafe. A three course meal with free wine and the show costs approximately £30 per person and is exceptionally good value. The food was excellent and the show fantastic, moving from the early period of the tango in the 1800's to a more modern day. This was a show not to be missed.
Buenos Aires is a fascinating city, I would have loved to spend more time there. The people are friendly and helpful and there are numerous museums, the Opera and theatres where one could spend one's time.
My next stop on this whirlwind tour was to be Iguazu Falls
Check out my report under Scenic Holidays.
Stephen Cresswell - Medway Travel
China
Dear Sue,
I must share with you my enthusiasm for the holiday in China you arranged for me. It was just gob-smackingly different!
We were met by our rep opposite the Virgin Atlantic check in desks at Heathrow terminal 3, taken to the Virgin's Upper Class lounge which is amazingly well equipped, including a beauty salon, shower facilities, a library, business facilities, a large bar, televisions and comfortable seating. They also offer a waiter service where you can order anything from a small snack to a 3 course meal. What a way to begin the trip of a lifetime! It began as it continued, and although it was a 12 hour flight, we were really made very comfortable (flat beds included) and arrived feeling surprisingly fresh.
On arrival at Shanghai's Pu Dong International Airport we were meet at the airport by our tour guide "Fan Lei" and transferred to the JC Mandarin Hotel, a 5 star property in the very heart of Shanghai, along Nan Jing Xi Lu which is the busy shopping and commercial district. After a quick freshen up, we were then taken on an escorted trip to the Bund (an area on the old side of the river Huangpu). We walked along the river and looked across at some of the fantastic high rise buildings on the new Pu Dong side of the city which has only been developed in the last 15 years.
The following morning we had a very early start, but it was well worth it! We went to Remin Park in the centre of the city to see The Shanghai Museum, and look at the large Bronze and Jasmine collection. On the way we watched the locals practice Tai Chi. This was fascinating and also quite amusing as one group were dancing to the Venga Boys!!
Later we went to Suzhou (pronounced Suh - joe), a 2500 year old city, about one and a half hours from Shanghai. There we saw the number 1 Silk Factory in the area and walked through the factory seeing how they turn the silk worms' cocoons into beautiful fabric. Of course, afterwards, we succumbed to the temptation to buy the factory's lovely and reasonably priced products!.
Our hotel that evening was The Sheraton Suzhou - the only 5* hotel in the city. The buildings were all very low and looked very traditional, the gardens were very beautiful and included an indoor and outdoor swimming pool and tennis courts.
We went to a traditional Chinese restaurant called Old Suzhou, and our tour guide ordered all the food for us so that we were able to try what the local people would eat. The meal was lovely, although not at all like my local Chinese take away!
We were really glad to have a tour guide with us, as very few people speak English and it can be very hard to do simple things, like order a meal.
Our next stop was a small town called Tongli, an age-old water township with a history of more than 1000 years. This little town was again very different, with its little huts and very peaceful atmosphere. We were able to wonder around and look at the many souvenir shops and also take a boat ride on the narrow canals which were all around the town. I really enjoyed Tongli as it was a very traditional and gave us the opportunity to see how the locals really lived.
I wont bore you with a detailed record of the rest of my three week trip, but I think you will see from these initial experiences that the whole experience was fabulous and quite unforgetable. Even the transfer back to Pu Dong Airport on our way home was unforgetable. We went on Shanghai's new Magnetic Levitation Train. The train runs from the business district in Pu Dong directly to the airport terminal. It is the world's fastest train and reaches speeds of 300km per hour in just 2 minutes. It really emphasised how advanced the city is.
So all I can do is recommend a trip to China for any of Medway Travel's clients, and I guarantee they will become similarly overwhelmed by the history, variety and beauty they will experience!
Katie Garnish
Canterbury
I must share with you my enthusiasm for the holiday in China you arranged for me. It was just gob-smackingly different!
We were met by our rep opposite the Virgin Atlantic check in desks at Heathrow terminal 3, taken to the Virgin's Upper Class lounge which is amazingly well equipped, including a beauty salon, shower facilities, a library, business facilities, a large bar, televisions and comfortable seating. They also offer a waiter service where you can order anything from a small snack to a 3 course meal. What a way to begin the trip of a lifetime! It began as it continued, and although it was a 12 hour flight, we were really made very comfortable (flat beds included) and arrived feeling surprisingly fresh.
On arrival at Shanghai's Pu Dong International Airport we were meet at the airport by our tour guide "Fan Lei" and transferred to the JC Mandarin Hotel, a 5 star property in the very heart of Shanghai, along Nan Jing Xi Lu which is the busy shopping and commercial district. After a quick freshen up, we were then taken on an escorted trip to the Bund (an area on the old side of the river Huangpu). We walked along the river and looked across at some of the fantastic high rise buildings on the new Pu Dong side of the city which has only been developed in the last 15 years.
The following morning we had a very early start, but it was well worth it! We went to Remin Park in the centre of the city to see The Shanghai Museum, and look at the large Bronze and Jasmine collection. On the way we watched the locals practice Tai Chi. This was fascinating and also quite amusing as one group were dancing to the Venga Boys!!
Later we went to Suzhou (pronounced Suh - joe), a 2500 year old city, about one and a half hours from Shanghai. There we saw the number 1 Silk Factory in the area and walked through the factory seeing how they turn the silk worms' cocoons into beautiful fabric. Of course, afterwards, we succumbed to the temptation to buy the factory's lovely and reasonably priced products!.
Our hotel that evening was The Sheraton Suzhou - the only 5* hotel in the city. The buildings were all very low and looked very traditional, the gardens were very beautiful and included an indoor and outdoor swimming pool and tennis courts.
We went to a traditional Chinese restaurant called Old Suzhou, and our tour guide ordered all the food for us so that we were able to try what the local people would eat. The meal was lovely, although not at all like my local Chinese take away!
We were really glad to have a tour guide with us, as very few people speak English and it can be very hard to do simple things, like order a meal.
Our next stop was a small town called Tongli, an age-old water township with a history of more than 1000 years. This little town was again very different, with its little huts and very peaceful atmosphere. We were able to wonder around and look at the many souvenir shops and also take a boat ride on the narrow canals which were all around the town. I really enjoyed Tongli as it was a very traditional and gave us the opportunity to see how the locals really lived.
I wont bore you with a detailed record of the rest of my three week trip, but I think you will see from these initial experiences that the whole experience was fabulous and quite unforgetable. Even the transfer back to Pu Dong Airport on our way home was unforgetable. We went on Shanghai's new Magnetic Levitation Train. The train runs from the business district in Pu Dong directly to the airport terminal. It is the world's fastest train and reaches speeds of 300km per hour in just 2 minutes. It really emphasised how advanced the city is.
So all I can do is recommend a trip to China for any of Medway Travel's clients, and I guarantee they will become similarly overwhelmed by the history, variety and beauty they will experience!
Katie Garnish
Canterbury
Ghent Weekend
I'm writing to say a big "thank you" to Medway Leisure Travel for your recommendations and arrangements for the long weekend trip we recently spent, celebrating my wife's birthday.
Ghent was the perfect destination! As you suggested, the town - the second largest city north of the Alps in the Middle Ages - has so much of interest to see! Two full days were not enough to do justice to the atmospheric squares and streets, the huge churches with all their priceless treasures, the 13th century castle (and instruments of torture), waterways, museums, civic buildings, shops and restaurants.
What added enormously to our enjoyment of it all was the warm friendliness of all the local people we met and the pedestrianisation of the city centre (except for the trams and taxis).
All the "sights" were within comfortable walking distance of the charming hotel you recommended. We found it was a 16th century merchant's house, with 10 bedrooms and beautifully furnished. On the ground floor were the original formal reception rooms. Breakfast was served in the old dining room over-looking a walled garden. This, and the original drawing room were really imposing, having high ceilings and massive antique furniture. There was still even the old chapel in the basement!
We were delighted with your suggestion that we should travel First Class on Eurostar. The service was impeccable and it was only 90 minutes from Ashford to Brussels Midi and the 30 minutes from there to Ghent. It was so comfortable we almost wished it had taken longer!
The whole trip was a great success and provided my wife with a birthday to remember!
Bill Jordan
Tonbridge
Ghent was the perfect destination! As you suggested, the town - the second largest city north of the Alps in the Middle Ages - has so much of interest to see! Two full days were not enough to do justice to the atmospheric squares and streets, the huge churches with all their priceless treasures, the 13th century castle (and instruments of torture), waterways, museums, civic buildings, shops and restaurants.
What added enormously to our enjoyment of it all was the warm friendliness of all the local people we met and the pedestrianisation of the city centre (except for the trams and taxis).
All the "sights" were within comfortable walking distance of the charming hotel you recommended. We found it was a 16th century merchant's house, with 10 bedrooms and beautifully furnished. On the ground floor were the original formal reception rooms. Breakfast was served in the old dining room over-looking a walled garden. This, and the original drawing room were really imposing, having high ceilings and massive antique furniture. There was still even the old chapel in the basement!
We were delighted with your suggestion that we should travel First Class on Eurostar. The service was impeccable and it was only 90 minutes from Ashford to Brussels Midi and the 30 minutes from there to Ghent. It was so comfortable we almost wished it had taken longer!
The whole trip was a great success and provided my wife with a birthday to remember!
Bill Jordan
Tonbridge
Latvia - The Land That Sings
Early in December, Astra (one of our leisure travel consultants) went on a trip to find out more about historic Riga, the capital of Latvia, a country she had never visited. The following is a summary of her report:
I can warmly recommend a short break in Riga. My journey to Riga International Airport from London on Air Baltic was comfortable and uneventful. I was surprised at just how quickly I was able to claim my bags! No sooner had I reached arrivals then my bags appeared.
As we made our way into the centre of Riga (approx 15 minutes by car) I was immediately taken by the beautiful architecture, a mix of Art Nouveau and colourful 15th century designs.
Crossing The River Daugava we passed the magnificent Riga Castle, residence of the first lady president Vaira Vike-Freiberga.
We arrived at our hotel in no time. The Hotel Europa Royale is a new luxury hotel housed in a restored 19th Century Mansion, once home to the writers guild and very centrally located across from Vermanes Garden.
Starting from these Gardens, one of Riga’s oldest parks and a wonderful place for relaxation and the arts, we embarked the following morning upon a guided city walk
The garden plays homage to Kr. Barons a compiler of Latvian folk songs who also appears on the 100 Lat note. Did you know that there are around 2 million national folk songs? That’s approximately 1 song per Latvian!
Also located in these famous gardens is The Latvian National Opera Theatre, which stages a wealth of classical and modern productions.
In the heart of the park we found the Freedom Monument (Brivibas Iela) designed by famous Latvian architect Karlis Zale. Fondly nicknamed Milda, a female bronze casting holds up 3 golden stars which symbolise 3 Latvian regions; Latgale, Kurzeme and Victzeme. The friezes around the base depict Latvians singing, working and fighting for their freedom. A popular activity for locals is to place fresh flowers at the base to commemorate the mass deportation of Latvians to Siberia under oppressive Soviet rule in 1949. Guards of honour stand at the base from 09.00 to 20.00.
From Vermanes Garden we were guided towards Riga Old Town which has been included on the UNESCO world heritage list as one of the world’s largest and best preserved areas of Art Nouveau buildings. It is a city with architecture that reflects the country’s turbulent history from 1201 to present day.
Riga Old Town is also host to many clubs, restaurants and bars with much to offer those looking for a base to explore the individual boutiques and quaint market square, located adjacent to The Three Brothers.
Must see sights to include in an Old Town tours are:
Three Brothers – These are the best example of medieval residential buildings, the oldest of which was constructed in the 15th Century.
House of Black Heads – First documented in 1334 and occupied by The Black Heads Merchant Guild. The Black Heads were an organisation of unmarried foreign merchants. This beautiful Gothic building was totally destroyed in WWII and later rebuilt as an exact replica. Did you know every historic and listed building once they decay beyond repair, must be rebuilt to exact original specifications, to preserve Latvia’s heritage.
Dome Cathedral – Is the largest Cathedral in the Baltic States. Founded at the beginning of the 13th Century under Bishop Albert. This vast Cathedral has become an icon of Old Town Riga. In past centuries it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, and therefore plays host to a variety of architectural styles.
As if all this wasn’t enough to wet our sight seeing appetites, we proceeded onto Riga’s Lido Recreation Centre for lunch. A quirky log cabin equipped with its very own windmill. The Lido offers a full variety of food and live entertainment. Lunch was served in a delicious array of Latvian cuisine; stuffed tomatoes, marinated wild mushrooms and an abundance of smoked meat and fish. Whilst the inside was delightfully seasonal there was plenty to catch your eye and put you in the Christmas mood with an outdoor skating rink a huge Christmas tree and several Christmas displays.
From the Lido we continued with credit cards burning holes in our pockets to The Bergs Bazaar. Kristaps Bergs originally created this shopping and residential enclave between 1887-1900 and has since undergone a radical face-lift, celebrating its original splendour whilst incorporating modern state of the art facilities.
My favourite shop was Emila Gustava Sokolade, a chocolateers where I sinfully indulged in a gloriously rich hot chocolate, which in my opinion far exceeds the chocolateers in Belgium. I also made sure I didn’t forget my loved ones at home with Christmas presents of hand made luxury chocolates!
Also located in The Bergs Bazaar is The Hotel Bergs, which made it onto the 2005 Tattler’s guide as one of the top ten luxury boutique hotels in the world.
We finished off our day with a meal at The Reval Hotel Latvia followed by cocktails at the Skyline bar. On the 26th Floor of the hotel The Skyline Bar provides an excellent position from which to admire Riga’s sights.
02nd December – Day 2
The morning saw us take a visit to Rundale Palace (Rundales Pils), a former summer residence of The Duke of Courland Ernst Johann Biron.
Approximately 1 hour outside of Riga this beautiful palace is one of Latvia’s most popular historic tourist attractions and is home to Latvia’s largest Collection of Baroque and Rococo Art.
From there we moved on to The Mezotne Palace Hotel for Lunch where we enjoyed a delightful 3-course meal. The Mezotne Palace Hotel is set in the Latvian countryside on the banks of The River Lielupe. The landscape rather reflects that of a country manor in Rural England. I believe that The Mezotne Hotel would make a great escape from Riga as part of a multi centre trip in Latvia.
The last part of the day saw us make our way through to Jurmala approximately 20 minutes drive from the Capital Riga.
Since the 19th Century, Jurmala has been a playground for large numbers of tourists due to its location on the Baltic Sea and miles of white sand. It has also been closely linked with health and well-being and as a result boasts a large number of luxury spas.
I was struck again by the Latvian architecture. To me the little wooden houses and hotels all painted in different pastel colours very much reminded me of a toy town. This theme carried through to the main pedestrian street where I found an abundance of café bars, bistros and shops. I am sure in the summer months these provide a pleasant evening after a full day on the beach.
03rd December, Day 3
This morning I decided to treat myself with a little something at The Jurmala Spa hotel. Being a novice to spa treatments I decided I would try something simple yet relaxing a 20-minute massage seemed to be the ticket and at just under £10 I couldn’t say no. My first impressions of the Spa were great modern décor, relaxed atmosphere with intimate surroundings. I have to be honest the massage itself was fairly rough and not as relaxing as I had hoped but am sure that someone more experienced would have found the treatment exhilarating.
The rest of the morning I spent browsing through the shops and indulging in fabulous cups of hot chocolate before my flight back home.
What more can I say except I am already looking to take my partner, best friend and her husband for a short break to Latvia next year!
Astra Beadle - Medway Leisure Travel
I can warmly recommend a short break in Riga. My journey to Riga International Airport from London on Air Baltic was comfortable and uneventful. I was surprised at just how quickly I was able to claim my bags! No sooner had I reached arrivals then my bags appeared.
As we made our way into the centre of Riga (approx 15 minutes by car) I was immediately taken by the beautiful architecture, a mix of Art Nouveau and colourful 15th century designs.
Crossing The River Daugava we passed the magnificent Riga Castle, residence of the first lady president Vaira Vike-Freiberga.
We arrived at our hotel in no time. The Hotel Europa Royale is a new luxury hotel housed in a restored 19th Century Mansion, once home to the writers guild and very centrally located across from Vermanes Garden.
Starting from these Gardens, one of Riga’s oldest parks and a wonderful place for relaxation and the arts, we embarked the following morning upon a guided city walk
The garden plays homage to Kr. Barons a compiler of Latvian folk songs who also appears on the 100 Lat note. Did you know that there are around 2 million national folk songs? That’s approximately 1 song per Latvian!
Also located in these famous gardens is The Latvian National Opera Theatre, which stages a wealth of classical and modern productions.
In the heart of the park we found the Freedom Monument (Brivibas Iela) designed by famous Latvian architect Karlis Zale. Fondly nicknamed Milda, a female bronze casting holds up 3 golden stars which symbolise 3 Latvian regions; Latgale, Kurzeme and Victzeme. The friezes around the base depict Latvians singing, working and fighting for their freedom. A popular activity for locals is to place fresh flowers at the base to commemorate the mass deportation of Latvians to Siberia under oppressive Soviet rule in 1949. Guards of honour stand at the base from 09.00 to 20.00.
From Vermanes Garden we were guided towards Riga Old Town which has been included on the UNESCO world heritage list as one of the world’s largest and best preserved areas of Art Nouveau buildings. It is a city with architecture that reflects the country’s turbulent history from 1201 to present day.
Riga Old Town is also host to many clubs, restaurants and bars with much to offer those looking for a base to explore the individual boutiques and quaint market square, located adjacent to The Three Brothers.
Must see sights to include in an Old Town tours are:
Three Brothers – These are the best example of medieval residential buildings, the oldest of which was constructed in the 15th Century.
House of Black Heads – First documented in 1334 and occupied by The Black Heads Merchant Guild. The Black Heads were an organisation of unmarried foreign merchants. This beautiful Gothic building was totally destroyed in WWII and later rebuilt as an exact replica. Did you know every historic and listed building once they decay beyond repair, must be rebuilt to exact original specifications, to preserve Latvia’s heritage.
Dome Cathedral – Is the largest Cathedral in the Baltic States. Founded at the beginning of the 13th Century under Bishop Albert. This vast Cathedral has become an icon of Old Town Riga. In past centuries it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, and therefore plays host to a variety of architectural styles.
As if all this wasn’t enough to wet our sight seeing appetites, we proceeded onto Riga’s Lido Recreation Centre for lunch. A quirky log cabin equipped with its very own windmill. The Lido offers a full variety of food and live entertainment. Lunch was served in a delicious array of Latvian cuisine; stuffed tomatoes, marinated wild mushrooms and an abundance of smoked meat and fish. Whilst the inside was delightfully seasonal there was plenty to catch your eye and put you in the Christmas mood with an outdoor skating rink a huge Christmas tree and several Christmas displays.
From the Lido we continued with credit cards burning holes in our pockets to The Bergs Bazaar. Kristaps Bergs originally created this shopping and residential enclave between 1887-1900 and has since undergone a radical face-lift, celebrating its original splendour whilst incorporating modern state of the art facilities.
My favourite shop was Emila Gustava Sokolade, a chocolateers where I sinfully indulged in a gloriously rich hot chocolate, which in my opinion far exceeds the chocolateers in Belgium. I also made sure I didn’t forget my loved ones at home with Christmas presents of hand made luxury chocolates!
Also located in The Bergs Bazaar is The Hotel Bergs, which made it onto the 2005 Tattler’s guide as one of the top ten luxury boutique hotels in the world.
We finished off our day with a meal at The Reval Hotel Latvia followed by cocktails at the Skyline bar. On the 26th Floor of the hotel The Skyline Bar provides an excellent position from which to admire Riga’s sights.
02nd December – Day 2
The morning saw us take a visit to Rundale Palace (Rundales Pils), a former summer residence of The Duke of Courland Ernst Johann Biron.
Approximately 1 hour outside of Riga this beautiful palace is one of Latvia’s most popular historic tourist attractions and is home to Latvia’s largest Collection of Baroque and Rococo Art.
From there we moved on to The Mezotne Palace Hotel for Lunch where we enjoyed a delightful 3-course meal. The Mezotne Palace Hotel is set in the Latvian countryside on the banks of The River Lielupe. The landscape rather reflects that of a country manor in Rural England. I believe that The Mezotne Hotel would make a great escape from Riga as part of a multi centre trip in Latvia.
The last part of the day saw us make our way through to Jurmala approximately 20 minutes drive from the Capital Riga.
Since the 19th Century, Jurmala has been a playground for large numbers of tourists due to its location on the Baltic Sea and miles of white sand. It has also been closely linked with health and well-being and as a result boasts a large number of luxury spas.
I was struck again by the Latvian architecture. To me the little wooden houses and hotels all painted in different pastel colours very much reminded me of a toy town. This theme carried through to the main pedestrian street where I found an abundance of café bars, bistros and shops. I am sure in the summer months these provide a pleasant evening after a full day on the beach.
03rd December, Day 3
This morning I decided to treat myself with a little something at The Jurmala Spa hotel. Being a novice to spa treatments I decided I would try something simple yet relaxing a 20-minute massage seemed to be the ticket and at just under £10 I couldn’t say no. My first impressions of the Spa were great modern décor, relaxed atmosphere with intimate surroundings. I have to be honest the massage itself was fairly rough and not as relaxing as I had hoped but am sure that someone more experienced would have found the treatment exhilarating.
The rest of the morning I spent browsing through the shops and indulging in fabulous cups of hot chocolate before my flight back home.
What more can I say except I am already looking to take my partner, best friend and her husband for a short break to Latvia next year!
Astra Beadle - Medway Leisure Travel
Portugal
Having been to Portugal once, some time ago, I wanted to see more of the country.
On approaching Medway Leisure Travel, we had a good discussion about my ideas.
They came back to me with a proposal of a two-week self drive tour, staying at a number of historic Pousadas.
My wife felt touring for two weeks was a bit over the top, so they produced a new proposal, including a few days stay in a beautiful self-catering cottage in wonderful surroundings situated in a national park, at the end of a somewhat shorter tour.
We found this holiday to be one of the most memorable, varied and enjoyable that we have had for many years. I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone who, like us, is a little adventurous, but no longer as young as we used to be! It fitted our wishes exactly so thank you Medway Travel!
Mr Philip Noble, Faversham, Kent
On approaching Medway Leisure Travel, we had a good discussion about my ideas.
They came back to me with a proposal of a two-week self drive tour, staying at a number of historic Pousadas.
My wife felt touring for two weeks was a bit over the top, so they produced a new proposal, including a few days stay in a beautiful self-catering cottage in wonderful surroundings situated in a national park, at the end of a somewhat shorter tour.
We found this holiday to be one of the most memorable, varied and enjoyable that we have had for many years. I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone who, like us, is a little adventurous, but no longer as young as we used to be! It fitted our wishes exactly so thank you Medway Travel!
Mr Philip Noble, Faversham, Kent
Rome
I enclose a post card which I wrote whilst on holiday in Rome to thank you and the Ellen Kent International Opera and Ballet Company for the wonderful holiday.
On my return I found another post card from you (the first one I received was wishing us a lovely holiday) and am responding to that.
You ask if other people would enjoy a similar experience - absolutely. When I entered the competition to win a holiday in Rome I admit that I had never come across Medway Leisure Travel. I was told to make contact and to book the holiday at a time to suit myself and my husband. This I did immediately and within 24 hours everything was booked. What service! No hitches: the airport of our choice and a reasonable flight time (early but that gave us extra time in Rome).
About three to four weeks before my husband and I left for Rome the tickets arrived together will all documentation and a very good map of Rome. All very efficient and straightforward. Our journey went without a hitch and the hotel that we had been booked into was superb - right in the centre near to the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain. The room that was allocated to us was large and most comfortable - something we had not expected as this was a 'one-off' holiday won through a competition.
I know that people will say "well not everyone wins a competition" but the services offered by your company have been most efficient and much appreciated and I am absolutely sure that this kind of service would be extended to anyone was was booking any holiday thorugh Medway Leisure Travel.
We shall never forget our break in Rome (in spite of the European Constitution being signed whilst we were there) and again we extend to you all our grateful thanks.
Yours sincerely,
(Mrs) Margery Purdon
On my return I found another post card from you (the first one I received was wishing us a lovely holiday) and am responding to that.
You ask if other people would enjoy a similar experience - absolutely. When I entered the competition to win a holiday in Rome I admit that I had never come across Medway Leisure Travel. I was told to make contact and to book the holiday at a time to suit myself and my husband. This I did immediately and within 24 hours everything was booked. What service! No hitches: the airport of our choice and a reasonable flight time (early but that gave us extra time in Rome).
About three to four weeks before my husband and I left for Rome the tickets arrived together will all documentation and a very good map of Rome. All very efficient and straightforward. Our journey went without a hitch and the hotel that we had been booked into was superb - right in the centre near to the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain. The room that was allocated to us was large and most comfortable - something we had not expected as this was a 'one-off' holiday won through a competition.
I know that people will say "well not everyone wins a competition" but the services offered by your company have been most efficient and much appreciated and I am absolutely sure that this kind of service would be extended to anyone was was booking any holiday thorugh Medway Leisure Travel.
We shall never forget our break in Rome (in spite of the European Constitution being signed whilst we were there) and again we extend to you all our grateful thanks.
Yours sincerely,
(Mrs) Margery Purdon
Three into one will go
Leaving an itinerary and other arrangements in the hands of others always lends itself to a certain amount of concern. However we were even relaxed at the outset of planning when we were assured "yes, leave it to us we will sort something out" and that is just what happened.
Medway Travel came up with the goods and off we went.
Lucca
First stop Pisa Airport, pick up hire care and drive to Lucca. We should have taken note of Medway's travel directions rather than rely on local knowledge but we eventually arrived safely at Hotel La Luna very conveniently situated just inside the city walls, with nearby garage to park up the car for a couple of days. Lucca as with similar towns is best placed to explore on foot (or you could hire a bike). The summer sun was still with us so what a better way to enjoy a day around the town, up the tower for a bird's eye view, a visit to Puccini's home (a must), casual lunch, a walk around the walls and an evening concert (free!) provided by local college students. Accommodation at the hotel was excellent, a very adequate breakfast, sumptuous room and just look at the frescoes on the bedroom ceilings!
Siena
The autoroute was recommended by the Hotel rather than over the hills and round the bends so we took their advice and were soon on our way to Siena. However we decided to break our journey by lunch in a wayside bar and then travel to San Gimignano, the town of fair towers. Accepting the inevitable presence of tourists (and we were no different) the town has a fascination of towers, narrow streets, churches, squares and an air of romance.
On to Siena to the Hotel Athena, as with Lucca the hotel is easily located just inside the city walls and has garage parking. Our room was well situated with a view over the countryside and only a flight of stairs to a roof top terrace for wine at sun set. No city stress here!
The Duomo here is magnificent and how choice to visit in September when marbled mosaic floors protected from human feet for much of the year are opened up for display. The hand held audio guide more than adequately explains history, reasoning and the tale that exists behind each fresco, painting and work of art. The main square, Piazza del Campo is the magnet for all, harbouring cafes and bars where dinner al fresco is accompanied by strolling minstrels. On the evening of our arrival it was a feast day of the contrada with street celebrations for children in the open squares, streets lined with flags and carved wooden lamps in contrada colours. Our first night evening meal in a local osteria, typical food (don't go for the tourist menu, but be adventurous) and a super atmosphere.
Florence
You cannot really visit this part of Italy without sampling Chianti country, so rather than fast motorways, off we went to the hills, small pretty villages, quiet roads (yes even in Italy) vineyards and wonderful air. We have vowed to return.
The route to Florence was uneventful but the challenge is getting off the autoroute to the airport where we were to drop off the car. Make use of your navigator, she is really very useful. After dropping off the car, it is a short and easy taxi ride into Florence. Our Hotel Corona D'Italia, where we were to spend 3 nights, was just 10 minutes walk from the heart of Florence, the Duomo. As with our other hotels, the location was spot on for sightseeing and just a short walk to the main line railway station which we were to use for our return to Pisa.
Well, where do you start in Florence (because for sure it's difficult to finish). So with a little planning we took in the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery (prior booking worthwhile to miss the queues), Santa Groce, San Marco, Accademia,Gallery and the whole atmosphere of the Florence piazzas, markets, trattoria and of course the Ponte Vecchia. To have a breather from the hustle and bustle of the city we crossed over the River Arno, to picnic in the Boboli Gardens and for a splendid view of Florence the walk up the hill to Piazzale Michaelangelo was very worthwhile.
The train back from Florence to Pisa took us right into Pisa Airport, a last pizza and homeward bound to the UK.
So much in so few days, but also so much left to do - we must return.
The jigsaw completed by Medway Travel was perfect, with nothing out of place, so we really must say Bene Grazie to you all
M S & Mrs S M Phillips
24 September 2004
Medway Travel came up with the goods and off we went.
Lucca
First stop Pisa Airport, pick up hire care and drive to Lucca. We should have taken note of Medway's travel directions rather than rely on local knowledge but we eventually arrived safely at Hotel La Luna very conveniently situated just inside the city walls, with nearby garage to park up the car for a couple of days. Lucca as with similar towns is best placed to explore on foot (or you could hire a bike). The summer sun was still with us so what a better way to enjoy a day around the town, up the tower for a bird's eye view, a visit to Puccini's home (a must), casual lunch, a walk around the walls and an evening concert (free!) provided by local college students. Accommodation at the hotel was excellent, a very adequate breakfast, sumptuous room and just look at the frescoes on the bedroom ceilings!
Siena
The autoroute was recommended by the Hotel rather than over the hills and round the bends so we took their advice and were soon on our way to Siena. However we decided to break our journey by lunch in a wayside bar and then travel to San Gimignano, the town of fair towers. Accepting the inevitable presence of tourists (and we were no different) the town has a fascination of towers, narrow streets, churches, squares and an air of romance.
On to Siena to the Hotel Athena, as with Lucca the hotel is easily located just inside the city walls and has garage parking. Our room was well situated with a view over the countryside and only a flight of stairs to a roof top terrace for wine at sun set. No city stress here!
The Duomo here is magnificent and how choice to visit in September when marbled mosaic floors protected from human feet for much of the year are opened up for display. The hand held audio guide more than adequately explains history, reasoning and the tale that exists behind each fresco, painting and work of art. The main square, Piazza del Campo is the magnet for all, harbouring cafes and bars where dinner al fresco is accompanied by strolling minstrels. On the evening of our arrival it was a feast day of the contrada with street celebrations for children in the open squares, streets lined with flags and carved wooden lamps in contrada colours. Our first night evening meal in a local osteria, typical food (don't go for the tourist menu, but be adventurous) and a super atmosphere.
Florence
You cannot really visit this part of Italy without sampling Chianti country, so rather than fast motorways, off we went to the hills, small pretty villages, quiet roads (yes even in Italy) vineyards and wonderful air. We have vowed to return.
The route to Florence was uneventful but the challenge is getting off the autoroute to the airport where we were to drop off the car. Make use of your navigator, she is really very useful. After dropping off the car, it is a short and easy taxi ride into Florence. Our Hotel Corona D'Italia, where we were to spend 3 nights, was just 10 minutes walk from the heart of Florence, the Duomo. As with our other hotels, the location was spot on for sightseeing and just a short walk to the main line railway station which we were to use for our return to Pisa.
Well, where do you start in Florence (because for sure it's difficult to finish). So with a little planning we took in the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery (prior booking worthwhile to miss the queues), Santa Groce, San Marco, Accademia,Gallery and the whole atmosphere of the Florence piazzas, markets, trattoria and of course the Ponte Vecchia. To have a breather from the hustle and bustle of the city we crossed over the River Arno, to picnic in the Boboli Gardens and for a splendid view of Florence the walk up the hill to Piazzale Michaelangelo was very worthwhile.
The train back from Florence to Pisa took us right into Pisa Airport, a last pizza and homeward bound to the UK.
So much in so few days, but also so much left to do - we must return.
The jigsaw completed by Medway Travel was perfect, with nothing out of place, so we really must say Bene Grazie to you all
M S & Mrs S M Phillips
24 September 2004
Verona and the Opera
Ian Smith's elderly mother wanted to travel to Verona for the Verdi Opera season. Ian was concerned about her having to make her own way from the airport to the hotel and needed to be assured that she would given a ground floor room as she couldn't manage many stairs and didn't like lifts. The Medway Travel Management team, with the help of Kirker Holidays, arranged taxi transfers to and from the airport and pre-assigned her ground floor room number.
Ian Smith says: "What a service, the young lady listened to my concerns and adapted the package to suit."
Ian Smith says: "What a service, the young lady listened to my concerns and adapted the package to suit."
